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Care Guide

Respite Care — Relief for Family Caregivers

Family caregiving is one of the most demanding roles a person can take on. Respite care gives caregivers a break — from a few hours to several weeks — while ensuring your loved one receives professional, compassionate care.

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Types of Respite

Three Ways to Access Respite Care

Respite care comes in several forms to fit different situations, budgets, and duration needs. Our advisors help you identify the right type for your family.

In-Home Respite

A professional caregiver comes to your home and provides care for a few hours to several days, allowing the primary caregiver to rest, travel, or attend to other responsibilities.

Typical cost

$20 – $40 / hr

Adult Day Programs

Seniors attend a supervised daytime program offering activities, meals, and social interaction — giving family caregivers full workdays free from caregiving duties.

Typical cost

$70 – $100 / day

Residential Respite

A short-term stay (1–4 weeks) in an assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facility. Ideal for longer caregiver breaks such as vacations or recovery from illness.

Typical cost

$150 – $300 / night

Free Guidance

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A local advisor will help you explore options — at no cost to your family.

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Respite Care FAQ

What is respite care?
Respite care is short-term, temporary care provided for a senior so that their primary caregiver can take a break. It can be provided in-home, at an adult day program, or through a short-term stay at an assisted living or skilled nursing facility.
How much does respite care cost?
Costs vary widely by type: in-home respite runs $20–$40/hour; adult day programs average $70–$100/day; residential respite (in an assisted living facility) typically costs $150–$300/night. Some programs are subsidized through Medicaid, VA benefits, or non-profits.
How long can respite care last?
Respite care can be as short as a few hours or as long as several weeks. Residential respite in assisted living or skilled nursing is typically 2–4 weeks, though exact limits depend on the facility and payer. In-home respite is flexible based on scheduling.
Does Medicare cover respite care?
Medicare covers respite care only within a hospice benefit — up to 5 consecutive days of inpatient respite care for hospice patients. Outside of hospice, Medicare does not cover respite services. Medicaid and the VA may cover respite for eligible individuals.
Can respite care lead to permanent placement?
Sometimes a respite stay helps a family evaluate whether a community is the right long-term fit. Many families find that a short trial stay gives their loved one and the family confidence in making a permanent transition — or confirms that staying home is the right choice.